Job Opening: KDC/ Executive Director

Job Opening: KDC/Downtown Kankakee Executive Director

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About Downtown Kankakee 

Kankakee Development Corporation (KDC) is a Special Service Area (SSA) business non-profit that provides district management to Kankakee’s central business district. Downtown Kankakee is located at the heart of Kankakee County. Remnants of the city's past still stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the glossy buildings of the present, creating a uniquely historic, yet modern, and urban vibe to the thriving business district and community gathering place. In the past few years, Downtown Kankakee has seen a resurgence of small businesses and new developments all right near the beautiful Kankakee River. Downtown Kankakee maintains a professional and welcoming feel, while embracing the diversity of this special community. 

About the Job 

The Executive Director of Downtown Kankakee plays a pivotal role in driving the organization’s mission and providing strategic leadership across the district. This position is key to fostering a thriving economy and enhancing the quality of life by steering innovative initiatives in economic development, marketing, public space enhancements, placemaking event coordination and advocacy. The Executive Director is instrumental in positively shaping the future of Downtown Kankakee. 

Details

  1. $2700/month
  2. Averaging 25 hour/week
  3. Email resumes to Scott Smith, KDC President, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities 

Administration and Leadership: 

  • Administer, evaluate, and develop the organization’s incentive programs, Sidewalk Dining Program, and services. 
  • Plan and attend the monthly board of director meetings. 
  • Prepare and recommend an annual operating budget with the Treasurer for the Board of Directors’ approval. 
  • Attend and help facilitate all KDC’s committee meetings. 
  • Secure sponsorship for events and programs, as needed. 
  • Represent the organization in areas such as downtown events, public meetings, safety, street closures, and other areas. 
  • Coordinate long-range planning with Board of Directors. 

 

 Place Making and Marketing: 

  • Promote the businesses of the district collectively to multiple market segments using the website, social media, generation of positive publicity, and other methods. 
  • Ensure agreed-upon services, recognition and media exposure are delivered by contractual media company. 
  • Coordinate with contractors/partners to periodically update and optimize the existing website and manage all social media campaigns. 
  • Oversee the management of landscaping in Downtown Kankakee’s green spaces, including the Harold and Jean Miner Festival Square. 

 

Events Management: 

  • Plan and run the current KDC events including Sunset Strolls, Winter Wander and the KDC Annual Luncheon. 
  • Plan and run Sandwiches with a Side of Jam. 
  • Oversee the management of the Kankakee Farmers’ Market. 
  • Collaborate on the management of and represent KDC by attending all Kankakee Events Partnership events including Friday Night Concert Series, Cruis’n the Square, Merchant Street MusicFest, Wintersong, and the Tree Lighting. 
  • Develop and coordinate new events that drive traffic to Downtown Kankakee. 
  • Work and support other groups having events in the district that promote downtown Kankakee. 
  • Responsible for securing financial sponsorship for occasional events and programs. 
  • Must be able to lift 30lbs and be on your feet for long periods of time. 
  • Must be able to work nights and weekends when needed. 

 

Stakeholder/ Partner Relations: 

  • Coordinate Downtown Kankakee projects and improvements, as needed. 
  • Regularly make in-person visits to downtown businesses and organizations. 
  • Coordinate and plan retention visits with Board of Directors, as directed. 
  • Maintain regular communication with Economic Community Development Agency (ECDA). 
  • Coordinate communication functions, including responding to businesses and landlords, media, and other inquiries. 

 

Qualifications: 

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required. 
  • Experience in marketing, place making, sales and sponsorship, business revitalization, or business organization experience preferred. 

Kankakee Development Corp is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expressions, marital status, age, disability, or status as a covered veteran or any other characteristic protected by law.